Best Tent Camping near Fillmore, CA

Los Padres National Forest surrounding Fillmore, California offers several tent-only campgrounds with varying levels of accessibility and amenities. Chula Vista Campground at Mt. Pinos stands at nearly 9,000 feet elevation and requires a short 1/4-mile walk from the parking area to reach the tent sites. Oak Flat Campground in nearby Castaic provides free tent camping with basic amenities, while Musch Trail Camp in Topanga State Park offers a more secluded backcountry tent camping experience. The Sespe Wilderness area north of Fillmore contains primitive tent campsites accessible via hiking trails, with some requiring permits from the Forest Service.

Most tent campgrounds in the region feature dirt or forest duff surfaces with minimal site preparation. Campers should secure an Adventure Pass for vehicles parked in Los Padres National Forest and bring sufficient water, as many sites lack potable sources. Vault toilets are common at established campgrounds, though maintenance varies considerably between locations. Bear activity is reported throughout the region, particularly at higher elevations, necessitating proper food storage. According to one camper at Chula Vista, "Rangers have written 100 tickets this summer for illegal campfires," indicating strict enforcement of fire restrictions. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with high winds common at ridge-top sites and seasonal gates sometimes limiting access to walk-in tent sites.

Tent campers frequently note the solitude available at these locations despite their relative proximity to urban areas. At Chula Vista Campground, visitors appreciate that it's a "walk-in campground so no cars or RVs" create noise or congestion. The sites are typically well-spaced, offering privacy not found at drive-in campgrounds. One camper reported that "midweek in August had no problem finding one of the open, first-come-first-served sites" at Pine Mountain Campground in the Sespe Wilderness. Stargazing opportunities are exceptional at higher elevation sites, with clear night skies drawing astronomy enthusiasts. Creek-side tent sites are available in some canyons, though water levels vary seasonally and typically require treatment before drinking.

Best Tent Sites Near Fillmore, California (57)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 57 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Fillmore, CA

686 Reviews of 57 Fillmore Campgrounds



Guide to Fillmore

Tent camping near Fillmore, California offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the stunning landscapes of the region. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you'll find the perfect spot to set up your tent and unwind.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

  • Explore the scenic trails at Circle X Ranch Group Campground, where you can hike to breathtaking viewpoints in the Santa Monica Mountains.
  • Enjoy a peaceful retreat at Danielson Group Multi-Use Area, which is perfect for large groups and offers access to beautiful wildflower trails in the spring.
  • Experience the remote beauty of Lions Canyon, where you can relax by the creek and take in the tranquility of nature.

Tips for tent camping near Fillmore

Local attractions to enhance your camping experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Fillmore, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Fillmore, CA is Oak Flat Campground with a 4.1-star rating from 11 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Fillmore, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 57 tent camping locations near Fillmore, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.